The southbound carriageway of the M1 was closed between J24, for Kegworth, and at J25, for Derby, after the incident and it did not re-open until more than 17 hours later at 9.25pm last night, as the crash caused “extensive damage” to the road.

A report from Highways England said: “It became apparent to the attending emergency services that this was a serious incident, with extensive clean-up, repair and recovery operations required.

“After liaison with Nottinghamshire Police, it was confirmed that the car involved in this incident was heading northbound on the southbound carriageway of the M1, prior to the collision.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Nottinghamshire Police on 101.